The search for a new ride in 2025 can be daunting—with over 260 models tempting buyers. To simplify your journey, here are Consumer Reports’ Top 10 picks for the year. This people-first guide focuses on real advantages, comfort, and safety—no marketing jargon, just what matters to families, commuters, and weekend explorers. Use this to compare, decide, and own your choice with confidence. Read on to see which cars, EV SUVs, and trucks earn our highest honor for 2025.
Bold Choices for Every Lifestyle
Small Car: Nissan Sentra
Looking for a wallet-friendly daily driver? The Nissan Sentra offers incredible value. You’ll enjoy ample safety features right out of the gate—more than some pricier sedans. The Sentra’s ride comfort stands out, with nimble handling and a cabin with surprising roominess. Need easy-to-use features? This car shines with simple controls. With a base price under $25,000, plus three free oil changes in the first two years, it’s a smart all-around buy.
Midsized Car: Toyota Camry
The beloved Toyota Camry is fully redesigned for 2025. Now, it’s exclusively a hybrid, delivering 48 mpg overall and a sharp boost in power. You’ll get all-wheel drive on every trim, a polished interior, and Toyota’s latest infotainment system. Comfortable, practical, and just fun to drive, this sedan is a natural pick for families and commuters who want lasting value and eco-friendly driving.
Subcompact SUV: Subaru Crosstrek
Craving adventure without sacrificing city comfort? The Subaru Crosstrek has standard all-wheel drive, generous ground clearance, and a comfortable, versatile interior. Only the base model comes with the smaller 152-hp engine—opt for others to get a more spirited 182-hp experience. With easy-entry and top-notch safety tech, it’s ready for any weekend trail or weekday errand.
Compact SUV: Subaru Forester
Year after year, buyers turn to the Subaru Forester for a reason—it just works. Redesigned for 2025, it boasts roomier interiors, a quieter cabin, and more cargo space. Standard all-wheel drive and a refined four-cylinder engine (29 mpg overall) mean it’s ready for family trips or daily grind alike. A hybrid variant is arriving soon for those who want even more efficiency.
Fuel-Efficient SUV: Toyota RAV4 PHEV
Toyota ups the ante with the RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid, packing a punchy 302 hp, electric range up to 42 miles, and a quick charge time of just 2.5 hours (on a 240V system). This version stands out for brisk acceleration (0-60 mph in 6.3 seconds) and superior ride comfort. It’s ideal for drivers seeking performance and efficiency in one compelling package.
Midsized SUV: Toyota Highlander Hybrid
If you need three rows and hate stopping for gas, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid is a rare find. Achieve 35 mpg overall and enjoy a highway cruising range of almost 600 miles. Its comfy seats, smooth ride, and loaded active safety suite turn long journeys into stress-free adventures. There’s even a larger Grand Highlander Hybrid for big families needing more space.
Luxury Compact SUV: Lexus NX350h/NX450h+
Luxury without fuss—Lexus NX hybrids spoil you with plush interiors and a refined yet lively drive. The NX350h delivers 38 mpg overall, while the NX450h+ plug-in hybrid travels 37 miles electric-only, then gets 35 mpg after. In both, you get quick, controlled steering, a firm but comfortable ride, and premium features.
Luxury Midsized SUV: BMW X5/X5 PHEV
The BMW X5 lineup is where luxury meets excitement. Drift in a serene, quiet cabin with heated, supportive seating. The base model speeds from 0-60 mph in 6 seconds, with 23 mpg overall, outshining rivals in efficiency. The plug-in hybrid offers 39 miles electric range and, once depleted, 21 mpg—perfect for drivers who blend commuting with weekend escapes.
Electric Vehicle: Tesla Model Y
The Tesla Model Y blends everyday practicality with electrifying performance. Enjoy a long range, rapid acceleration, and access to the expansive Supercharger network. Its hatchback body means more room for luggage and passengers. The modern, minimalist cabin impresses, though some users may find the touchscreen controls less intuitive. The 2025 refresh promises an even better, quieter ride.
Small Pickup: Ford Maverick/Maverick Hybrid
Need a pickup that’s easy to park but still versatile? Check out the Ford Maverick. It combines peppy performance (250-hp turbo or 191-hp hybrid) with excellent mileage—the hybrid scoring 37 mpg overall. Its AWD hybrid model is new this year, giving you even more flexibility. The cabin is easy to enter, with simple controls and decent space for a work crew or family.
Scheme Comparison Table
| Model | Key Strengths |
|---|---|
| Nissan Sentra | Value, safety, comfort, < $25,000 |
| Toyota Camry | Hybrid, 48 mpg, AWD, comfort |
| Subaru Crosstrek | AWD, comfort, adventure-ready |
| Subaru Forester | Roomy, AWD, 29 mpg, refined |
| Toyota RAV4 PHEV | 302 hp, 42 mi. electric, 2.5h charge |
| Toyota Highlander Hybrid | 35 mpg, 3-row, 600-mi. range |
| Lexus NX350h/450h+ | 38 mpg, luxury, 37-mi. electric |
| BMW X5/X5 PHEV | 23 mpg, luxury, 39-mi. electric |
| Tesla Model Y | Long range, cargo, Superchargers |
| Ford Maverick/Hybrid | 37 mpg, compact, AWD available |
What Buyers Love: People-First Highlights
Easy-to-use features and comfortable seats top the list for real-life satisfaction.
Excellent fuel efficiency—many models exceed 35 mpg.
All-wheel drive availability across almost every vehicle increases confidence in all seasons.
Active safety features, like automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assist, are increasingly standard.
Each pick includes options for families, commuters, and adventure-seekers, letting you prioritize what matters.
FAQs
Q1: Which 2025 car is most fuel-efficient for families?
A1: The Toyota Highlander Hybrid leads for families, with 35 mpg and seating for up to 8.
Q2: Is there a good, affordable hybrid pickup?
A2: Yes, the Ford Maverick Hybrid offers 37 mpg and a starting price that’s budget-friendly.
Q3: Which SUV handles best in bad weather?
A3: The Subaru Crosstrek and Forester both have standard all-wheel drive and generous ground clearance.
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